CVE-2024-20101 in MT3605
Summary
by MITRE • 10/07/2024
In wlan driver, there is a possible out of bounds write due to improper input validation. This could lead to remote code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS08998901; Issue ID: MSV-1602.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20101 resides within the wireless local area network driver component of a mobile operating system platform, specifically affecting the wlan driver module. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms during wireless network communication processing. The vulnerability manifests as a potential out of bounds write condition that occurs when the driver receives and processes malformed wireless frames or network packets. The issue affects devices running on platforms that utilize the affected wlan driver implementation, creating a widespread risk across multiple device models and operating system versions. The flaw was identified through comprehensive code analysis and security testing of the wireless networking subsystem.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which describes out of bounds write conditions that occur when a program writes data past the end of a buffer or array. In this case, the wlan driver fails to properly validate the length and structure of incoming wireless frames before attempting to process them. The driver's input validation logic does not adequately check the size of received data packets against the allocated buffer space, allowing an attacker to craft malicious wireless frames that exceed the expected buffer boundaries. This improper validation creates a scenario where arbitrary memory locations can be overwritten, potentially corrupting critical system data structures or executable code segments. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level within the wireless driver, providing attackers with direct access to system memory management functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-20101 extends beyond simple data corruption, as it enables remote code execution without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK matrix under the technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can execute arbitrary code within the kernel context of the target device. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no user engagement or physical access to the device, making it suitable for large-scale exploitation campaigns. An attacker positioned within wireless network range can craft malicious beacon frames, probe responses, or other wireless management frames that trigger the buffer overflow condition. The remote execution capability means that adversaries can potentially install backdoors, modify system files, or escalate privileges to full system control. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of wireless communication services, potentially disrupting network connectivity and compromising the confidentiality of wireless data transmission.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-20101 should prioritize immediate patch deployment as provided in the ALPS08998901 update, which addresses the specific buffer validation flaw in the wlan driver. Organizations and device manufacturers must ensure all affected devices receive the security update as soon as possible, particularly in environments where wireless security is paramount. The patch implementation includes enhanced input validation routines that properly check packet sizes against allocated buffer boundaries before processing. Additional defensive measures include implementing wireless network segmentation and monitoring for anomalous wireless traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network administrators should consider disabling unnecessary wireless services and implementing robust firewall rules to limit wireless communication to trusted networks only. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and code reviews of kernel-level drivers, particularly those handling network input processing. Security teams should monitor for any emerging exploitation techniques targeting this specific flaw and maintain updated threat intelligence feeds related to wireless security vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not introduce regressions in wireless functionality while maintaining the security hardening measures implemented in the update.